A quick glance at the defensive ends

Brad Allis

08/06/2004

Arizona must get a solid pass rush this season and the defensive ends will be vital in putting pressure on opposing passers. Arizona has some depth at the position, but much of it is unproven. Three key contributors are joined by four players who have never stepped on a college football field.

Smith is one of the Wildcats' best defensive players. Bryan has been the definition of hard work and perseverance. Torrey had a great spring and looks to finally live up to the promise he showed in the spring of 2002. Dotson was a prized recruit in last year's class. Parker has bulked up after playing linebacker in high school. Turner could be a steal. USC loved him but academics sidetracked the start of his collegiate career. Wilson will likely redshirt, but has a load of athleticism.

2004
DEPTH CHART

PLAYER

YEAR

HT

WT

HOMETOWN

1a

Marcus Smith

JR

6-5

249

San Diego, CA (Mission Bay)

1b

Andre Torrey

RS-SR

6-4

245

San Francisco, CA (Laney CC)

2a

Jason Parker

RS-FR

6-3

255

San Diego, CA (Mission Bay)

2b

Copeland Bryan

RS-JR

6-4

235

San Jose, CA (Bellarme Prep)

3

Lionel Dotson

RS-FR

6-4

252

Houston, TX (Dobie)

2003
STATS

PLAYER

UT

AT

TT

TFL

Sacks

Copeland Bryan

19

10

29

2.5

0.5

Marcus Smith

24

16

40

6.0

4.0

Andre Torrey

16

6

22

7.0

4.0

Parker and Smith are cousins…Smith, Bryan and Torrey all began last season as outside linebackers as the Cats originally implemented a 3-4 defense…Smith was honorable All-Pac-10 last season…The group combined for just 8.5 sacks last season, with Torrey and Smith getting four each…Turner signed a Letter of Intent with USC but academic problems forced him to re-open his recruiting…Bryan was originally a walk-on before earning a scholarship…Torrey missed all of 2002 and parts of 2003 spring ball with a hip injury…Wilson was rated higher as a high school tight end, but the Wildcats love his potential as a rush end.